A battle that defined 3RAR’s legacy
Soldiers at 3RAR commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong with a parade at Lavarack Barracks.
More than 500 took part in the parade, attended by about 1000 guests, to recognise one of the most significant engagements in the battalion’s history.
CO 3RAR Lt-Col Dan Ellis said the legacy of Kapyong continued to define the battalion.
“Kapyong wasn’t held by the meek or mild. It was held by determined soldiers who stood their ground and held the line,” Lt-Col Ellis said.
“That is the standard that has been set for this battalion and it is the responsibility we carry today.”
From April 22 to 25, 1951, during the Korean War, 3RAR fought alongside Canadian and other United Nations forces to hold key terrain against a large-scale Chinese offensive.
Positioned on Hill 504 overlooking the Kapyong Valley, 3RAR played a critical role in blocking the enemy’s advance towards Seoul, repelling repeated assaults while heavily outnumbered.
Lt-Col Ellis said while the character of warfare continued to evolve, the fundamentals of soldiering remained unchanged.
'[The diggers of Old Faithful] were ruthless in their preparation and rehearsals, and when it mattered, they held the line.'
“Armoured infantry is not just about the vehicles. It is about the soldiers who will close with and defeat the enemy,” he said.
“Ultimately, that outcome comes down to the soldier on the ground.”
Operations Officer 3RAR Maj Lachlan Findlay said the battalion’s culture remained central to its effectiveness.
“Culture is everything. It’s what enables an organisation to thrive and flourish, and in my time in the Army, I haven’t seen a stronger culture than what I’ve seen here in 3 RAR,” Maj Findlay said.
He said the lessons from Kapyong continued to inform how the battalion prepared for operations.
“The diggers of Old Faithful won that fight through determination, teamwork and looking after the person to their left and right,” he said.
“They were ruthless in their preparation and rehearsals, and when it mattered, they held the line.”
Lt-Col Ellis said the anniversary reinforced the legacy of Kapyong and the responsibility carried by the battalion today.
“Today, we recognise the courage shown in the Kapyong Valley, the standard it set and the responsibility we now carry,” he said.
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